Nabothian cyst: How to identify and treat it

Nabothian cyst is a small lump that forms on the surface of the cervix due to the accumulation of mucus released by the Naboth glands in the cervix.

These cysts form when mucus-producing glands are covered by a skin-like cell type, blocking mucus passage. When this happens, the mucus accumulates inside the uterus giving rise to the rounded cyst on the surface of the cervix, which can be observed on gynecological examination.

Nabothian cysts are quite common in women of reproductive age, especially those who have had children, and do not mean that the woman has uterine cancer or cervical cancer. In addition, there is no relationship between Nabothian cysts and pregnancy, these cysts do not cause infertility, nor do they impair fertilization or pregnancy.

Symptoms and diagnosis

This cyst usually does not cause any symptoms, but its presence may indicate that there was a previous or recent infection that can led to a cervical irritation.

Nabothian cysts are often misdiagnosed by a gynecologist during a gynecological exam such as the pap smear. The cyst is rounded and whitish in color and visible and palpable on the cervix during routine gynecological examination.

Colposcopy and biopsy may be used to assess cyst characteristics and differentiate from other lesions, but biopsy is usually not required.

Causes

The cause of Nabothian's cyst is the accumulation of secretion inside the uterus due to the blockage of mucus passage through the canal. This can happen when after a genital infection the body forms a protective skin layer on the cervix region, giving rise to small benign nodules in this region that can be seen on exams or senses through the vaginal touch.

Does a Nabothian cyst need treatment?

Nabothian's cysts usually do not need treatment because they disappear on their own, but in very rare cases these cysts can grow very large, changing the shape of the uterus. In this situation, the gynecologist can remove the cyst by using a heat instrument that destroys the cyst or by using a scalpel.

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